Listia-Like Ebay, but FREE!

Updated on February 25, 2011

Too much stuff?

Do you have a lot of stuff in your house you don't use? Possibly some things you may still have tags on or left unopened in a drawer somewhere? Or maybe you have some items in your closet that are gently used but you just don't wear anymore? Do you also like to get things for free? Well maybe you should hop on over to Listia.com!

What is Listia.com?!

Listia is a website that works just like Ebay, but everything is free! Just for signing up right now you get up to 400 credits for free! You can list items to auction off for credits. Credits are just like money! If you see something you like that another person has up for auction, you can place a bid on the item; when the time runs out on that auction if you are the higher bidder you win! Sounds easy, right? It is!

These are some of the badges you can earn and what they look like!

What are some features of Listia?

Credits!

Credits can be earned by auctioning off your own unwanted items. There are a few things not allowed on Listia, but you can check their guidelines for a complete list of these items... It generally runs around illegal items, tobacco, and stuff not meant for children's eyes! You can also earn credits by referrals, sharing auctions on twitter, and sometimes you will get a random pop up stating you "found" credits while you were bidding on an item or doing other tasks.

Badges!

Some of the features on Listia are interactive. You earn badges by completing tasks. The more badges you have the more people can see what kind of member you are. The badges are a way of showing other "buyers" that you are a trusted member of the community. You can earn badges by completing your profile, linking to your Facebook or your Twitter, verifying you Paypal or bank account, and even listing items and winning auctions! There are tons of ways to have fun on Listia.

Experience Points!

You can earn experience points by bidding on items or completing any tasks that get you closer to earning a badge! Experience points are also earned just simply by logging (or checking) in to your account everyday. Your experience points determine your user level. This is still in beta but Listia promises to start rewarding users with higher levels and experience points in the near future, so why not level up?

Feedback!

Feed back is a way to show everyone how great you are at winning and selling! People who win your auctions can give you positive, negative or neutral feedback according to the type of experience you provide your winner. Feedback goes both ways! You can also give feedback to a person who has won if you think they are a great communicator and were a gracious winner... or even if they were a booger and didn't help you out any...

Fans!

Being someones "Fan" means you get access on your main page to when they post new auctions you may be interested in. Some people even do random drawings for their fans to send gifts monthly. It all depends on the person.

Others!

There are many other fun features that I have not included that are just as fun as well, such as watching auctions, browsing by category or even searching for ending auctions so you can get the final bid in on something you may have missed.

So What's the Catch?

There isn't really one.. Sign up is free. Listing your auctions is free. You can add as many pictures as you like and there are many ways to have fun!

But what about shipping?

Okay, so MAYBE there is a small catch, but it's not a big one. Most auctioneers opt to go the completely free route, including free shipping on most auctions. Some people choose to charge for the shipping costs, but it is usually a nominal fee that is meant purely for the shipping costs alone.

You do not have to ship free either if you do not want or cannot afford it. You as the auctioneer can decide whether or not you want to charge the shipping fee, but if you are auctioning off something desirable then people will want it enough not to worry about it too much.

Countdown Timer on an auction. Some auctioneers offer a "Get it Now" option for people with a lot of credits and don't want to wait for the auction to end.This is for a "Stuffed Purse" auction. A purse, stuffed with smaller goodies such as samples.

So What are You Waiting for?

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Comments 57 comments

I 'll need to take a look at this as I have a big stake in eBay.I enjoyed this very much. You have this laid out beautifully and it is easy to understand. Keep up the great HUBS. Up one and Useful. Hey! I'm now your fan! RJ

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

Thank you so much! I love hearing nice things..makes my ego HUGE! nah just kidding... But I totally appreciate you stopping by to read and I am SO glad you liked it! =D

Joan 5 years ago

I like the idea of this, especially since it's free. How big is Listia, are their lots of items available??

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

TONS! lol... people add new things every day... from premium auctions of iPads and Xbox 360s to Sponsored auctions ( one currently going is actually for an umbrella from an umbrella company), to everyday Listians posting their own personal items from makeup to electronics to baby items and antiques. Everyone has something for someone. If there is something in particular you are looking for, there is a possibility someone has it. lol

MNPID 5 years ago

I am very disappointed in LIstia and witnessed an inequity that convinces me that this site is NOT a site that I would want to do business with.

As a strong advocate for the (attempted) elimation of counterfeit handbags and accessories, I post on multiple forums, report fakes to the various venues and authenticate certain brands in order to protect buyers and sellers.

Although federal trademark law prohibits the sale of fakes and although it's a seller's responsibility to authenticate items before listing, clearly fakes are listed and sometimes sold before being flagged.

In a case of a buyer who purchased a fake Juicy Couture necklace, buyer is unable to leave appropriate (negative) feedback for the seller who broke the law, yet the seller left negative feedback for that buyer!

Buyer has lost her credits through no fault of her own and dishonest seller is unduly enriched after violating the law.

And Listia is doing NOTHING to help the scammed buyer.

BEWARE of this site.

Edited to add: Listia is NOT like ebay except free (as the title suggests) because on ebay, if a buyer is scammed by a seller who sold COUNteRFEIT goods, that seller is penalized, buyer is made whole and buyer is allowed to leave the negative feedback that the seller has earned and deserves.

pro86nic 5 years ago

I'm so done with this site. The Mods do nothing but side with the seller... People claim to send you PS3 games but all you get is plain white envelopes.. A bunch of this site is a scam. If you are an honest seller you get screwed over a lot but scams. The 85% of the designer items are knockoffs and not the legal kind either the illegal kind that can land you behind bars. F++++ for this site. I would stay away!!!

bug 5 years ago

I've reported this site to the anti-counterfeiting coalition and to IC3 which is the FBI division for cybercrimes. Listia aids and abets...which in itself is a crime.

Maddie Blaisdale 5 years ago

I opened an account and got rid of a lot of items I had no use for and built up a lot of credits. Out of 6 items I 'bought' from sellers using my credits I received 4 counterfeit items, one was a counterfeit computer battery that started to smoke and almost caught fire!

Listia was non responsive to my complaints and I lost those credits. I filed fraud reports with the US Postal Service over the counterfeit purses I received. My postal inspector said that Listia is just another counterfeit sales website and to avoid it. They are getting a lot of complaints.

Ebay has as many counterfeits - but at least you get your money back and the seller gets appropriate ratings.

Sorry, Listia is like Ioffer. Avoid!

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I do not condone nor do I support the selling of counterfeits.. but at the same time I avoid name brand items unless I know what I am getting ahead of time. I also do my part to flag suspect violators of the Listia guidelines. I give a positive review of the Listia website because it is a place for people to come together to give away free items for credits and no money is involved unless a seller chooses to list with shipping or a buyer chooses to pay for shipping or a person actually chooses to purchase credits but I fail to see the point in that since its a free website. Why spend money on credits when you can obtain credits for free.

Not everyone on the site is a counterfeiter but thats also not to say that every person in the world is honest. I say use your best judgement to decide what you think is right or wrong. If it doesn't look right or you have your doubts... don't bid. Someone will always find something wrong with something. Such is the way of the world. I appreciate your comments and I thank you for taking the time to stop by and read but also remember.... don't shoot the messenger. I wrote this as my honest opinion of a site that I have not had a bad experience with as of yet. Thank you.

robin31 5 years ago

I have been listing on listia since July, 2010. I feel I must add a comment after the comments above. Ebay has a motto "let the buyer beware". I feel that the motto is applicable to every site like listia or ebay or any of the others. I have had a few issues, for instance something advertised as sterling and receiving silver plate, but it's as much my fault for not asking the right questions as it is the seller's fault for not giving the correct information. So far, in my opinion, everyone has been fair. I list items that don't sell on ebay. That's about it. And one can get some incredible items for free on listia - even if one has to pay a nominal fee for shipping. I appreciate MNPID's position on counterfeit items but to bash the whole site for that alone is unfair to listia. I agree that counterfeit items should not be allowed on any site, but the listia moderator team is trying to keep up with any items that may be counterfeit by removing them. There are some on listia that now are "flagging" everything posted with a named brand, real or not. It has taken on a life of its own and is unfortunate. I ask you, who wouldn't like to get a Coach for free? Therein lies the problem. I personally think that the listia team is trying and should be given props for that at least. There may be some scammers, there may be some underage listers, there may be some kinks, but to grossly over-generalize the site as a site for counterfeiters is wrong, in my opinion. I think those who are listing counterfeit items may truly not know that their items are not the real deal. If you took a moment to read some of the descriptions - and some of the comments - you will see that a number of members are not the sharpest tacks in the box, have a miminum of education and live in some of the poorest areas - as evidenced by their inability to create a complete sentence in a language that is understandable by normal people. Consider this - ebay has been in existence for a long time - I've been a member for over 10 years. They did not arrive at their position now overnight. Remember - let the buyer beware. Works for me.

MNPID 5 years ago

Robin31 makes valid points and I cannot disagree with any of them.

As is the case when visiting any online site, we tend to search and focus on those items that are of interest to us so my comments, although specific to a case in my area of interest, apply to the site also.

I understand that "caveat emptor" applies when doing business anywhere, not just online but even at B&M stores. And I also understand that there are scamming buyers as well as scamming sellers. Everyone needs to use caution when doing business with someone they don't know.

Although the specific incident referenced in my post happened to be a purchase from the clothing, shoes and accessories category, the complaint is due to a systemic problem.

Evidently, Listia feedback policy states that in cases of a dispute, when Listia rules in favor of the seller, the buyer can't leave negative feedback for that buyer.

Something is broken in a system when a seller has violated a policy (i.e. in this case sold a fake item) yet the buyer/victim cannot leave appropriate (negative) feedback for that seller but the seller can neg the buyer.

To give Listia the benefit of the doubt, I'll assume that in most disputes, they don't err in their decisions and that the resolution is found in favor of the correct party.

However, as indicated in this case (and possibly/probably others), Listia mods are human and imperfect. They goofed in finding for the wrong party and added insult to injury with their policy.

As we've seen on ebay with regard to its one-sided feedback system, it doesn't work. (For those who don't know, on ebay, sellers can only leave positive feedback for buyers and as a result, fraud is occurring at an alarming rate and many good sellers have left ebay.)

In the case of Listia, with a one-sided feedback system, they too will lose the honest buyers or sellers.

A fairer system is one where both buyer and seller can rate their transactions. As is stressed on other sites, feedback is an "opinion" and if the member's opinion isn't positive, let them express it.

If a member is found to be abusing the feedback system, BAN the MEMBER! But don't hurt the legitimately unhappy buyer or seller by disallowing them to rate their experience.

And again, this opinion is applicable to the whole Listia site.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

There are definitely many valid points made by all. I honestly DO believe that banning someone who is in the wrong and knowingly is in the wrong is the best course of action. There are risks with everything. I believe that sometimes if something is too good to be true sometimes it may be, but asking questions is a responsibility that the buyer should take if they are concerned or suspicious of an object they are bidding on. Seems as though there are obviously kinks that need to be worked out and everyone should always approach things with caution but removing an entire website or telling everyone to stay away doesn't seem like the right thing to do. it is true that forewarned is forearmed... and I appreciate you sharing your story because now I know what to look for and what would seem like a bad idea...hundreds upon thousands of counterfeit makeup is sold on eBay everyday... all it takes is a little knowledge about the item you are purchasing and if something doesn't add up.. walk away. Sharing your story for everyone to hear is helpful in that others can learn from the mistakes of the past. Hopefully Listia will become stronger and more organized on what happens when counterfeiters are brought to light. Until then why not try to enjoy what it is that Listia was created for? A community where the old adage "One mans trash, is another mans treasure" really comes into play. I have seen some really interesting, wild and useful items on Listia. Removing the whole site removes the fun. One person listed an old "haunted" doll. The story behind the object was incredible and interesting and it turned out the doll was worth upwards of $1000 or more. Almost every single person on the comments told them to take the doll to eBay... but they chose to "sell" it on Listia instead. That's not something easily faked and the person honestly didn't know the doll was worth that much but some of the people in the Listia community really are honest people. Not everyone is bad.. you just have to know how to spot them.

MNPID 5 years ago

@ SognoPiccolo: I'm just curious. Are you Listia admin? Do you have the power to implement some of the improvements that have been suggested or is this just a forum for expressing opinions?

Do TPTB at Listia read this?

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I am not an admin... just a fan of what I have encountered so far as a member on Listia. Apparently though according to my hub info I am getting reroutes from the Listia help page somehow.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

also @MNPID I noticed you do not have any hubs or fans on this account... is it that this is a puppet account or did you join just to comment? If you really did join to be a part of the community I really think you should post a hub about the downside of Listia. It will be read I can assure of that...You seem to have a lot to say on the subject.

MNPID 5 years ago

I joined just to comment. I found the post and thought a more balanced (i.e. pro AND con) view can help people decide for themselves what they think of Listia.

I'm not sure whether your "You seem to have a lot to say on the subject." is supposed to be sarcastic or not but in case you aren't being snarky, I'll respond.

Those of us who are post passionate comments with regard to the subjects we feel strongly about have done a lot of reading and posting (on multiple forums) and we don't mind expressing ourselves and our opinions.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

No sarcasm intended.. Just saying it seems like you have a lot to input and I think putting it together in a hub would work well for you. Heck, I would even link to it on this one. I don't mind. It's good to have opposing views. I have nothing negative to say on the matter as I have not had a bad experience as of yet. It really was eye opening reading your comments and I do believe you and for it I will definitely be more cautious in the future. =)

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

If I honestly had no thought or care for what you had to say I would have deleted your comments and I didn't because I DO believe both sides should be heard. And I honestly really do appreciate your comments on the situation.

MNPID 5 years ago

Thank you. It's always nice when both sides are allowed to post. People can (and do) agree to disagree and we can do it politely and respectfully.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I don't disagree with you at all.. You make VERY valid points and your experience is very real and I would be angry too. You really have made me aware of the situation and I will definitely keep my eyes open from now on. These things happen and if no one ever speaks up about it, sometimes no one will ever know to do anything about it. =)

robin31 5 years ago

Several years ago I discovered a site called iOffer. I looked around and found that counterfeiters abound. These are not just someone trying to sell their handbag/scarf/watch that they received as a "gift" but actual businesses that produce replica items commonly known as knockoffs. I stress that these are actual businesses in foreign countries.

I say this because in a post above the impression is that companies providing counterfeit items are listing on listia and I honestly don't believe that is the case. I believe that the people listing their knockoffs are not huge companies set up to sell their stock of replica items as on iOffer, but actual owners of a replica item or 2. Although wrong/illegal, I don't believe the listers are maliciously trying to dupe people who want to get a high end item for free. I could be wrong - and have been in the past - but I don't think this is the case here. In my humble opinion...

As far as feedback on listia - I agree with MNPID. It is grossly unfair to the seller that negative feedback cannot be given when it is due. When ebay initiated the change in their policy, I was 100% - no negatives, no neutrals. But what is a seller to do when someone leaves them an unwarranted negative? Ha. Nothing, nada, zip. No backup from ebay, nothing. I feel the same thing is happening on listia and it is a darn shame that sellers have to worry about what the buyer/recipient is going to think of an item that they won. There are some seriously sick people in this world. I can honestly say I have never left anyone a negative feedback. If I have a problem, I try to first work it out before leaving feedback, almost always with a positive outcome.

I appreciate MNPID's expertise and passion and have learned quite a bit just from reading the responses on a long-running forum on listia. A "hub" on this site regarding counterfeit items would probably be well received.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I don't know anything about iOffer... never heard of it before... I found Listia almost 2 years ago I think it was but never signed up...browsed around and didn't give it a chance. I always approach things cautiously and I realized that staying away from the big ticket items was in my best interest anyway because you never can be too careful when dealing with stuff like "designer" bags or even shoes and things. In a world where "you get what you pay for" you really have to think hard about whether a free designer item is worth it. I think that people shouldn't even list things like that on there at all because of the kind of value they have, but it is their choice and money they spent. And I really do think that a hub on the matter would do wonders and I would gladly link to it on here so someone can have both sides to the story. And if I ever have a problem with anything like this I would definitely speak up.

MNPID 5 years ago

Thanks for the suggestion and offer of help but I'll pass at this time.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I contacted the Listia mods and they said they actually have been watching this post from the get go... so They have seen your input and hopefully the information can be put to good use. Good luck with everything and I really am glad you commented. Thank you =)

arizagirl 5 years ago

I AM A NEW MEMBER ON LISTIA AND I THINK IT A VERY COOL WEBSITE AND CHECK OUT LISTING ON THERE AND DO NOT FOR GET FAN ME AND I WILL DO THE SAME THANKS:)

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

thanks for stopping by to read and comment! =)

Claudia 5 years ago

Hi, I am new to Listia and am not really sure what it means to "watch" an auction? Do you get notifications about changes to the auction or what?

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

Hi Claudia, To watch an auction is a great feature to use! Clicking the "watch" button on an auction that you like will post it on your main page. Allowing you to access the auction easily without having to search for it over and over again. This is really helpful when the auction doesn't end for a few days... or even a few hours. Also, adding an item to your watch list, Listia will contact you by email notifying you that the auction will be ending soon so you can stay on top of bidding. It will also have an update on your main page when you have been outbid, what the current amount of credits the auction is going for and also just as a visual reminder that it's something you want to bid on. I hope this helps! Utilizing the watch button is a great tool when you have your eye on something and don't want to lose it in all the other auctions. =)

stephanie 5 years ago

love this site just signed up a few days ago I have won 1 auction so far n have stuff listed now i hope is i sell stuff the credits go to me all of them or does the site take some

robin31 5 years ago

You get all the credits. But you have to make sure you mail your item out in a timely fashion. It is always good to read the rules. Good luck!

MNPID 5 years ago

This post is a followup to my previous posts of 7 months ago. At that time, I wasn't particularly impressed with LIstia although I did realize then (and still now), they are a "work in progress."

In the several months since I first discovered Listia and found myself disappointed in what I saw, my feelings have changed.

One of the good things about a site that is small (as compared to the "big boys" like ebay and amazon), is that its members can have personal contact with moderators and get timely responses to disputes.

I've been made a moderator and have the ability to educate buyers and sellers, help weed out listings that violate various rules and offer constructive criticism and suggestions to TPTB for ways to improve Listia. Listia admin is open and honest about wanting to be a safe marketplace.

The purpose of this post is to give credit where credit is due. Running a successful website takes time, changes and input from others and Listia has come through with flying colors.

Scammers will always be around and as in any venue, it's "caveat emptor," (let the buyer beware), but when found, they will be banned.

SognoPiccolo 5 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

Robin is correct Stephanie... you keep all credits you earn through auctions... Listia does not collect a "fee" of any kind from you for listing..

@MNPID... thank you for the update. I am glad you found a reason to change your mind and congrats on being a moderator. I have had tons of contact with admin on Listia and I have always had a pleasant experience.. The more I am on Listia the more I love it. It really can be fun and exciting. and you are 100% correct... "buyer beware" really fits... make sure you read everything thoroughly, ask questions if you are unsure, and if something seems shady and makes you uncomfortable don't feel bad about moving on to the next auction. Someone will always list a similar item eventually. =)

Lacreta Doty 4 years ago

I enjoy Listia very much. I've been able to get rid of a lot of item I had bought to sell on Ebay that just would not sell. Ebay's fees are too much, and with Listia you can charge shipping or offer free shipping! The items with free shipping sell for a lot more. I've got a lot of great things on Listia and have always been treated fairly with customer support.

Lacreta Doty 4 years ago from Atlanta, GA

I've been able to get rid of a lot of item I had bought to sell on Ebay that just would not sell. Ebay's fees are too much, too many new policies, and with Listia you can charge shipping or offer free shipping! The items with free shipping get you a lot more credits as a seller. I've got a lot of great things on Listia. If you do not get your item or get something not as described Listia is always quick to respond and help and have always been very fair.

SognoPiccolo 4 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

Thanks for commenting! you are right... of the few times I have had an unfavorable outcome, Listia moderators were quick to help resolve the issue. =) I have tons of fun signing in and listing auctions, surfing through listed items and earning badges. It's always fun. =)

Corey 4 years ago

Listia is the best

SognoPiccolo 4 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

AGREE! =D

Ryan 4 years ago

I have been using listia for a couple months now and so far it has been great! Its an easy way to turn my old comic books and sports cards into collectible coins! Everyone has been fair so far. I haven't bought any items that are usually counterfeited so I haven't experienced that with the site. If I had the money to buy those brands anyway, i would buy them direct from the official store and not through a 3rd party. Just like ebay, you get what you pay for.

I have noticed there is an unusually high number of Batman fans and Batman related items go for a lot of credits!

SognoPiccolo 4 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

you are very correct! Most animated characters go really well... especially Hello Kitty for the girls. =) Other things that do well: video games, electronics, fabric, jewelry and nice makeup. =)

Peggy George 4 years ago

I joined Listia after getting a referral from a Facebook friend. My friend was supposed to get 500 free credits when I joined. I was supposed to get 500 free credits for joining. I got my credits, but my friend did not get her credits for referring me. (She contacted Listia and they told her it was because I was a Facebook friend. (Then why ask people to refer Facebook friends ?)

My friend deleted her account over not getting the credits. I should have deleted mine, but I thought I'd give them a chance.

I spent $5.00 and bought some credits. I noticed that anything I wanted was going extremely high 8000 or more credits. I couldn't afford to spend more money on credits, so I decided to lost some auctions.

I listed 10 things. All of the items sold. I waited and waited to get the credits. They never showed up. I emailed the buyers. They emailed me back all stating that Listia rules state you have to ship the stuff before getting paid for it. (Listia says this is to prevent fraud.) I mailed the stuff. According to Listia, the only way I could get my credits was if the buyer indicated they received the item. I waited and waited.

No one let listia know they got the items and all of them filed disputes saying they never got the items. All of my delivery confirmation recipts came back saying everyone of those people had the items. I sent copies to Listia, but in all cases Listia found in favor of the buyer and I lost my stuff and any credits I might have received.

Listia's rules make it very easy for buyers to scam sellers out of stuff. Listia seems to always find in favor of the buyer. They can ask for and get a refund even if they just don't want the stuff anymore. The buyers are not required to send the stuff they no longer want back to the seller, either.

I filed a complaint with the BBB and the Attorney General's office, but haven't heard back from either.

I'm sorry you have had such a difficult experience. I can honestly and sadly say there are less than wonderful people in the world and I am sorry you managed to run into such a large group of them all at once. Its good to let others know about your experiences with Listia so everyone so its not always one sided. I have spoke with Listia moderators and they have told me they have been following this hub and here's hoping they continue to do so, so that they can read your story as well. I have learned the hard way about scammers on Listia through my time as a member. I have learned never to trust anyone who has been a member for a long time and has terrible feedback, to be extra cautious when someone chooses to not verify their account, to flag and block suspicious accounts, listings, and users, and to always be prepared for the worst in any situation. I hope that your issues with Listia are resolved in a manner that makes you happy, and again I am sorry you had such a bad experience. Thank you so much for sharing and stopping by to read.

robin31 4 years ago

I know this is going to sound silly, but it is always a good idea to read the rules before posting. The rules on listia typically stay the same with a few clarifications, etc. If you do not know that you do not receive credits as a new lister until the winner receives the item, well...of course you're not going to get your credits. There are timeframes set in place that are very reasonable to get the items mailed, there are suggestions about using delivery confirmation to make sure that the items are received, etc. I am approaching my 2 year anniversary on listia and although not a big seller, I have been having (for the most part) fun. I am extremely cautious about bidding on items from new members simply because I was skunked 3 times in a row but did receive all credits back. It is as MNPID said earlier in the post "caveat emptor"... with use of caution and good sense, not forgetting that you can ask questions of all the sellers - you should have a reasonably pleasurable experience.

SognoPiccolo 4 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

You are correct... there are rules set in place for the protection of all involved and when followed it makes it much easier for everyone for sure. Over the past almost 2 years I've had my fair share of bad experiences but you learn as you go... "fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me" definitely applies sometimes. You pick up pretty quickly which people are scammers but looking deeper into how long they have been a member...what they verified, how often they sign in to Listia, and their feedback. Sometimes it pays to dig a little if you are interested in an item. The comments are another this.. how they interact with questions being asked and how fast they reply. Thank you for stopping by! =)

dalton bryan 4 years ago

well i am new ihave bid on some gift cards so i dont know if i will win yet but, what happens if i win, do i tell the person my address or will they send the code to my email. and so what if someone doesn't really do what they say if you win. its not like you are losing money.

SognoPiccolo 4 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

When you win an auction when you open the auction link, at the top of the page it will ask you to provide your Listia approved address and a way to contact the seller if you wish.. I recommend doing this anyway to establish a connection. They will have 7 days to ship the item, If they do not ship it in several days you may need to contact them for a refund. If you bid on an auction and do not win you will receive all your credits back. Listia has changed over the past month or so and I should probably update this hub. lol =D

adel 3 years ago

the site is great but most noobe sellers lie or trick you

SognoPiccolo 3 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

It's changed a lot over the past year and turned into something pretty negative.. I have contacted mods on numerous occasions with site suggestions and tons of complaints about scammers and they have stopped replying. I contemplated taking this hub down.

dd 3 years ago

I think the biggest problem on Listia is a sense of entitlement. Lets call it the a-hole syndrome. While everyone has their nice side, too many people are used to being babied and hand held. Expecting using to act as if they are stores, when in realty its not a job, but a place to literally give stuff away. I've put lots of stuff up on there for the ease of use, but 1 in 20 or less always makes the process difficult wanting you to either bend the rules or give more. Since the site is about getting free stuff if the seller doesn't pay for literally EVERYTHING from shipping, tracking, packaging, to adding on bonuses the site can plague you with whiney comments. And I say this as someone who is a fan of the site. This probably wouldn't be too bad but the moderation system is slow and often leave users to be harassed by the craziest of the bunch. While I have literally given away over 500 auctions (winning I dont know how many), I can honestly say only 2 of them where really bad. Then again a-hole syndrome is just another term for internet trolls.

SognoPiccolo 3 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

I couldn't agree with you more!That and the people making multiple accounts just for the credits. they scam a few people, spend the credits then delete the account and never send anything. People posting auctions of items that are against the rules. There are a few little things that when added up it makes it a huge pain. Oh of the plus sides, I like the rewards program they added, I think that was a neat addition on their part, and I like that they let you set your own starting bid though some people take advantage of it. But I agree it is definitely the a-hole syndrome that just digs under the skin the most. I just shake my head when I see the comments on people's auctions.

w1cht3l 2 years ago

2 listia member same shipping address are suspended immediately in listia.

w1cht3l 2 years ago

listia would suspend 2 people with same shipping address - find a friend or family or someone to try your address and save, and see what happens. then you will know why ppl said its bad and scam page.

I am a seller, and do not care if they ban me, I have been on Listia for yrs, and I figured out the banning scam 2yrs ago, and applied it, I believe that's the reason they pass me up when it cycles around.

Listia periodically ban and steal credits for reasons not disclosed and not within their guidelines and policies, sometimes they arbitrarily point to a reasons such as seller did not ship or multiple accounts with same address. 99 % of sellers have more than enough proof sitting in there personal email inbox. To stay on Listia, one must spend almost all your credits. Banned sellers have more than enough proofs in their in his email inbox, for breach of contract, fraud and mis-presentation lawsuit. I know of banned sellers who ship via listia rules less than 7 days have proof of shipping tracking number show delivered and got banned for no shipping.

The problem is listia is very hidden. I read online they operate out of the Middle East, their fake business address at Mountainview Ca. USA is a mail drop box, fake customer service phone number is a free online voice mail with option to accept messages. Replies from Listia is about 80% robotic webmail setup on Listia.com

I have friends and family banned off Listia, they did not believe me, when I warned them not to leave credits in their account. Sometimes they save credits to purchase electronics: My family & friends have lost 200,000 - 1,700,000 credits got banned while shipping on time. I do not believe Listia understands the USA address rules, eg; a duplex may have one address with a, b, or ½ etc added, a home could be rented to 3 individuals/separate families, Listia banned hundreds without notice to members to explain, also they modifiy their policies ‘WILLY NILLY’, ‘when ever the wind blows’ the members are caught off guard and without disclosure.

We are wanting banned sellers to contact us, I am ready to help a file a lawsuit. There is a strategy to get Listia where it hurts no matter how far they hide. There are certain rules on the Federal level concerning US registered Businesses, listia has fallen very short of those laws, consumers are protected by our Federal Government, Listia has numerous non-disclosures and have already scammed thousands from US sellers by demanding they place their heirlooms, personal possessions in return for credit, then ban most sellers after they have accumulated saved credits, and after they ship to the buyer.

This is misrepresentation, mis-classification, thief & Fraud the sellers credits are stolen, their items are not returned to them, they are out of their prized possessions. Listia deliberately bait and trap sellers with false promises.

We are going to obtain a Federal Judge order Listia either get the item returned to the sellers within 7 working days or return stolen credits in tipple amounts, allow victims to spend their credits and not to sell on listia.

We are seeking monetary damages $XXXXXXX for each named victim who actively participates – court testimony etc. All other victims will benefit if won, because they will be entitled to 3 times their credits refunded at accumulated the date they were banned.

These are just part of the Listia retributions discussed with an attorney who is ready to move forward. If you believe you were banned unfairly without reason or notice participate in this upcoming lawsuit against Listia. Please contact us.

Complaining does not help, the operators and Owners of Listia is a middle East probable Iranian who have no scruples in stealing US Citizens belongings via their Listia.com website. Listia has got bolder in recent years with their fraudulent credits for your hard earned money. Spread the word around.

Able

exeldelite 2 years ago

My brother read this blog and thanks to you they lost all her belongings to Listia. He listed as listia advertised list your stuff and receive credits, so I and my wife help that family listed all their valued stuff knowing that Listia promised we I did, said he should shipped within 3 days, listia rules & policies said ship up to 7 days. We all had fun volunteering & packaging TV, computers, laptop z ship had fun listing, selling and they did not spend their credits, they were saving the credits for electronics.

Last week they as usual tried to log on, they were banned, Listia never replied, took their credits of 265,000

they lost their stuff to listia, and no money, or credits. Listia did not say or contacted them. THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER going to Ebay.

Its seems listia have been doing this for yrs., and people just do not complain.

SognoPiccolo 2 years ago from Wilmington, Ohio Author

This is not something I have ever experienced or heard of anyone else experiencing this unless there are multiple accounts in one household or suspicious activity(upping bids reporting, spamming, or lots of negative feedback), but it is good to let others know so I always post comments people leave of their experiences. A lot has changed on Listia since I have written this post. You should continue to contact Listia until they give-in or respond to your emails. I can't imagine they would have done it unless they had a reason and if they did, then you deserve to know why at least.

robin31 2 years ago

Well, it's been a couple of years since I posted on here, but I am still buying and selling on listia. I see the recent post above from exeldelite and wonder just a few things. Rules have changed on listia. New sellers now have to wait approximately 21 days to get their credits, sometimes less. My first impression on the post mentioned here (above) is that the sellers did not follow the rules. I have seen new sellers listing electronics with questionable photos, no descriptions, not answering questions from potential buyers, etc. Some new sellers seem to think they list and get their credits and that's it. This is an auction site. Regardless of how you get paid, it is still an auction site. No one can expect to sell something with absolutely no effort on their part. As one poster way up in the thread said, she didn't send the items because she was waiting for the credits. That's just not how this site works. It's comparable to paypal holding ebay sellers' money for 21 days until a proven track record has been established. I have seen many many new lister auctions where there is only a photo posted, no description, no response to questions from potential buyers and of course - hopefully - no sales. I say hopefully because that's how some of the new sellers think it works - List it and sell it and get the credits to use as they please. Some new sellers just don't READ THE RULES. The rules don't change daily nor do they change very often. But they do change periodically - for instance, holding the credits for 21 days. While it hasn't affected me, it has affected some of my more trusted sellers. And communication is really the key. Fulfilling the obligation to mail the item properly packaged is also a key factor to me. There is nothing worse than getting something I paid thousands of credits for mailed in a plain white envelope. No padding, nothing. What do you think happens to that nice expensive (in credits) item? It gets squished by the post office. Oh, not my fault they say...well it is. The seller is responsible for making sure that the item gets to the buyer in good shape. Period. Free shipping? Don't just use a first class stamp for a piece of jewelry. IT WILL NOT GET THERE INTACT. This is just common sense. And as you can see, it is one of my biggest complaints. That and giving a new member the benefit of the doubt (which I am going through now) and hoping the item ships. It probably won't. But I will get my credits back. The main point I'm trying to make is you don't get the credits until the transaction has been completed and completed appropriately. The poster above said (I think) that listia kept their credits and the buyers got their items but I think it is pure BS. If the items had been sent with delivery confirmation and the seller can prove that the item has been received and after waiting the interminable long period for all to be completed, the credits should have been given to the seller. My best guess is that either something went horribly wrong (fake items listed and no intent to send anything) or it's a made up story. New mods on listia, not the sharpest tacks in the box either, and tend to send canned responses to all questions without regard to the content of the question - but this has been an ongoing complaint for years. All I can say is that if you follow the rules, mail as appropriate and within the time frame, patiently wait for the item to be received and indicated as received, no one should have any problems. And it can still be fun.

mistaken 2 years ago

The above mentioned is to be expected with auctions, the real issue is that Listia deliberately steel credits from long term sellers and others, without regard to any rules being broken, several season sellers 2 yrs+ have been victims, it appears listia operation and setup is somewhere in the Middle East, some say Iran, the employees online speak little or no English and the emails withing Listia are ROBOTIC with the exceptions of a few added words. Their address in Ca is a drop box, no customer service phones, only number is a INTERNET based voice mail with no option to leave messages. Listia DOES NOT ANSWER ANY EMAILS OR INQUIRY from whom they suspends.

WHAT I AM SAYING ITS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE some one gets them in FEDERAL COURT. I do not want the see them shut down, but refund all the billions of stolen credits. I know for certain they have violated their terms and agreements to Listian, and its near impossible to get them served with court docs,

My advise victimized Listians is to contact me, I found a Federal Attorney who has found a way to get them in court. Our government has Federal rules and guideline to deal with those company who has Fake registration address and location. Why is Listia so hidden? want to read the horror stories of Listia victims. ttype in listia scams ripoff in google. those sellers were ebayers & Amazonians, they had no questionable auctions or poor pics, all had been selling on listia 14 months to 3 yrs, they all had over 300,000 credits.

New complaints: Listia is suspends cancel accounts with similar address, now we all know some of those addresses were apartments duplexes, roomers. If they were in America they would have known.